How Your Belongings Are Restored After a Flood

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

The upward trend in the frequency of severe storm events means homeowners are at increased risk of home water damage. If you have experienced water damage in your home, you likely have numerous concerns about what will become of your damaged property. Consulting a professional remediation service is the recommended way to begin your content cleaning process.

Why Hire a Remediation Service?

It’s important to understand the seriousness of damage caused by a flood. Water that enters your home due to rising floodwaters is considered black water, also termed Category 3, the highest-level of water contamination. Here’s why professional help is essential:

1. Category 3 water is likely to contain chemicals, sewage or other materials that require specialized safety protocols.
2. Remediation specialists are trained to work safely and quickly, preventing damage that can spread with time.
3. Hazardous contamination may not be visible to the untrained eye of a homeowner.
   
   

It can be unsettling to turn your home and belongings over to a cleanup crew. Having some information about what to expect may help you feel more comfortable.

What Happens to Your Belongings?

Once the excess water is removed from your home, content cleaning crews will begin the process of cleaning and restoring your belongings. Carpets and pads may need to be replaced, though drapes, upholstery and other textiles can often be professionally cleaned and sanitized. Restoration crews will attempt to clean and refinish your hardwood furniture.
Computers, televisions and other electronics will be dried and dehydrated in an attempt to overcome internal water damage. If possible, they will be restored to working order.
Damaged documents present a challenge as paper can disintegrate quickly when wet. Your documents, photographs and other paper products will undergo specialized, meticulous methods to dry and restore them, where possible. Document restoration services may include HIPAA-certified personnel to ensure confidentiality and security procedures are followed.
When floodwater damages your home, it can be a stressful experience. Water-damage specialists know how to move through the content cleaning process safely and swiftly, so you and your family can have your lives back to normal as soon as possible.